What does it mean to be overstimulated?
What does it mean to be overstimulated
Pronunciation
/ˈoʊvərˌstɪmjuˈleɪtɪd/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A state of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with the quantity, intensity, or novelty of stimuli, often leading to feelings of exhaustion, anxiety, or burnout.
Examples
- She often felt overstimulated by the crowded city streets.
- He needed to take a break to avoid feeling overstimulated by the constant noise.
Synonyms
- Sensory overload
- Stimulation overload
Antonyms
- Understimulation
- Stimulation threshold
Etymology
The term “overstimulation” is derived from the combining of “over-” and “stimulation,” referring to the excessive stimulation of one’s senses or nervous system.
Usage Notes
Overstimulation is often used in psychological contexts to describe the overwhelming effects of sensory stimuli, but it can also be applied to other areas, such as social media or work environments.
Cultural References
In popular culture, overstimulation is often depicted in films and literature as a common experience, particularly in urban environments or amidst technological advancements.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Too much to handle” – often used to describe an overstimulating situation
- “Overwhelmed” – a common phrase used to describe the feeling of overstimulation
Related Words or Phrases
- Stimulation
- Taint
- Overload
- Burnout
Collocations
- Feeling overstimulated by
- Lacking stimulation
- Coping with overstimulation
- At risk of overstimulation
Frequency of Use
The term “overstimulation” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in conversations about mental health, self-care, and personal well-being.
Common Misspellings
- Overstimelation
- Ovestimulation
- Overstimulsation